Moles and Artificial Grass: How to Keep Your Lawn Moles-Free

When you’re dealing with moles, small burrowing mammals that create raised tunnels and mounds in lawns, often causing damage to natural grass. Also known as tunneling rodents, they’re a common headache for UK gardeners who want a neat, green lawn without the constant repair work. Moles don’t eat plants—they’re after worms and grubs—but their digging leaves behind ugly ridges and weak spots that make your lawn look messy and uneven. If you’ve tried traps, repellents, or noise devices and still see fresh mounds every week, you’re not alone. Many homeowners in the UK are turning to artificial grass, a synthetic turf alternative that mimics real grass but has no soil underneath for moles to tunnel through. Also known as synthetic lawn, it’s designed to stay flat, green, and undisturbed year-round.

Here’s the key difference: natural grass has loose soil, earthworms, and insects that moles love to hunt. Artificial grass sits on a compacted base—usually crushed stone or sand—with a backing that blocks access to the ground below. That means no tunnels, no mounds, and no digging. It’s not just a fix for moles—it also stops other pests like voles and chafer grubs from making a home in your yard. And because there’s no soil, there’s no need for fertilizers, watering, or mowing. That’s why so many people in the UK are switching: they’re tired of spending weekends fixing mole damage instead of enjoying their garden.

Some people worry that artificial grass might look fake or trap heat, but modern versions are made with UV-stable fibres that stay cool and realistic-looking, even in summer. You can even find blends with thatched fibres that mimic the texture of natural grass underfoot. If you’ve got kids, pets, or just hate the thought of digging up your lawn every spring, artificial grass gives you a low-maintenance, pest-free solution that lasts 15–20 years. And while you can’t stop moles from wandering through your neighbour’s yard, you can make sure your own lawn stays untouched.

Below, you’ll find real guides from UK gardeners who’ve made the switch—from how to prepare the ground properly to which artificial grass types hold up best in wet climates. You’ll also see how to deal with leftover mole issues before installation, and what to do if you still spot signs of activity. No fluff. Just clear, practical advice that works in British gardens.